Indian Culture

Founded on sound spiritual, philosophical and scientific foundation the principles of Indian culture set the basis of ultimate evolution of the conscious faculties of humanity. “Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara” – regarded as the first and the foremost culture in the world, it encompasses all possibilities of global welfare and righteous progress of the entire world – of all beings and everything existing on this earth.

The central theme behind the development of Indian culture as shaped by the revered rishis was – “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, treating the entire world as our own family – reflecting universality of serene love, altruism, sharing of responsibilities and caring for all beings…..

Foundational Element

Indian Culture or Hinduism, as it is popularly known, is like a huge tree with its branches representing various systems of religious thought. Gayatri Mantra, from which the Vedas are said to be originated is the foundation of this Divine Culture . The Vedas represent the religious tradition and their extension Upanishads represent the philosophy upon which that tradition is based.

Indian Culture essentially preaches: Peaceful coexistence, potential divinity of an individual, freedom of thought, Cosmic Unity, non-violence in word, deed, and thought, reverence for all forms of life, and

The law of karma: As you sow so shall you reap and rebirth. Unlike other religions of the world, Hinduism does not date from a particular point in time, and has no particular founder. It is based upon the insight and experiences of a large number of sages, saints, and seers. It is essentially a way of life, known in Sanskrit as Sanatana Dharma (Sanatana means eternal and Dharma means righteousness or religion).

Gayatri

It means; “O God, Thou art the Giver of life, the Remover of Pains and Sorrows, the Bestower of Happiness; O Creator of the Universe, May we receive The supreme, sin-destroying light; May Thou guide our intellect in the right direction.”

Yagya

Sanskrit word “Yagya” means “Sat Karma – Noble Deeds”. All activities in the limitless expansion of the universe are said to have generated from a grand eternal Yajna (Yagya). Yagya means – selfless sacrifice for noble purposes.

The behaviour pattern of Nature follows the spirit of Yagya. The Ocean gives its water to the clouds. Clouds carry and pour then as rain. Rain fed soils and rivers and in turn return to ocean. Each part of body constantly working for the well-being of the whole body. Wherever we turn our eyes we can see that the cosmos is run on the yagya spirit

Rishis have said that yagya is like the hub of the wheels of creation.

The Teachings & Philosophy of yagya:-

The real purpose of Yagya is to imbibe virtues like self-sacrifice, self-restraint (sanyam), charity, beneficence, generosity, compassion etc. in our daily life. It inspires us to surrender everything, body, mind, ego and soul to God. A Sadhak on surrendering himself to God, who has been described as Yagya-purush in the scriptures, becomes one with Yagya, just as samidhas on being consumed in the sacrificial fire of Yagya become fire itself.

The real Yagya is to follow the directions and inspirations of our indwelling divinity and imbibe righteous tendencies. Constant remembrance of the Divine, keeping an attitude of detachment and remaining engrossed in regular sacred studies and devotion amounts to leading a Yagyiya life.

Symbolism

Just as the work of art reflects the imagination of an artist, symbolism in religion expresses the attributes and the qualities of God as conceived by the seekers of Truth.

The word symbol comes from Greek ‘symballein’ meaning ‘to throw together, to unite, to compare, to correspond’. Symbol is a fluid and dynamic word meaning of which in Sanskrit is ‘Pratika’. Sankara says in his commentary on the ‘Katha Upanishad’ (1.2.15) that AUM is a ‘pratika’ of the Absolute. AUM is not a concept or precept.

Our ancient Rishies – Seers and Sages, dwelling at various planes of consciousness expressed the greatest spiritual messages in the most earthly language. This has given rise to symbols, parables, legends, myths and rituals that from the bulk of religious activities and religious communication. They keep the common man in touch with the most sublime religious truths and help him in participating in such activities.

Unfortunately not knowing the concealed message behind these dynamic representations most of the people either condemn symbolism in Hindu religion or neglect their importance in development of our insight for Higher spiritual truths.

All religions have their symbols, often more than one. These may be visual like cross, or auricular like Aum. They may represent God as power like the Sivalinga, or point out the path to Perfection as in the case of the Dharmachakra and Mashal (burning torch of knowledge) or signify the Savior and his religious system as in the Cross. A reverent study and scientific explanation of these symbols is as fascinating as it is spiritually rewarding.

Polytheism

Hindus believe in the existence of one and only one Supreme Being but they worship Him in various forms known as deities or Devatas. The Hindu worship of many deities (gods) is not polytheism, but monotheistic polytheism. The monotheistic Hindu pantheon is an affirmation that the Supreme Being , according to the character of individual , can be realized in many ways and worshipped in many forms.

Indian Culture recognizes the diversity of the human mind and the potential for spiritual attainments in each individual. Therefore no one is thrust into the pigeonhole of a single creed. The Mahabharata declares:

‘Akaasat patitam toyam yatha gacchati sagram, sarva deva namaskarah kesavam prati gacchati’. just as the rain water that falls from the sky eventually reaches the ocean, so also all the worship offered to Him, by whatever name you wish, or in whatever form you like, ultimately goes to the one (the only one) ultimate, infinite, Supreme Reality.

Ayurveda

The ancient Indian medical –

“science is believed to be the oldest repository of diagnostic, pharmaceutical and therapeutic knowledge. This Vedic science draws upon an integral approach to healthcare by considering the physical, mental and deep emotional well being simultaneously. It encompasses thorough knowledge of the Adhibhautik (physical, pertaining to the gross body), Adhidaivik (mental, emotional and pranic, pertaining to the subtle body) and Adhyatmik (spiritual, pertaining to the astral body) aspects of health. No other branch of ancient or modern disciplines of medical sciences, perhaps, has such deep and expanded foundations as Ayurveda has. This ancient science of medicine enfolds the secrets of youthful longevity and is therefore also referred as a comprehensive science of happy and hearty life.”

Meaning: The grand treatise, which contains the details of healthy and long age (ayu) and which defines what is good (hita) and what is bad (ahita) for the four different types of ayus (namely, hitayu, ahitayu, sukhayu and dukhayu, concerning different conditions of diseased or healthy life) – is Ayurveda.

The basic purpose of Ayurvedic knowledge is cited in the Shastrik literature as –

Swasthasya Swastharakshanama – Turasya Vikara Prashamanam Ca |

Meaning: – Ayurveda aims at the protection and maintenance of good health of the healthy people and elimination of and control over the ailments and health-disorders of the unhealthy.

Existence of a Supreme Reality

Hindus believe in the Existence of Supreme Reality which manifests itself as transcendent (impersonal) and immanent (personal). In its transcendent aspect, the Supreme Reality is called by various names, such as Supreme Self, Ultimate Reality, and Nirguna Brahman. In this impersonal aspect, the Supreme Reality is considered formless, attributeless, unchangeable, indeterminate, and beyond the perception of mind and intellect.

The transcendent aspect of the Supreme Reality is of the nature of absolute existence, absolute knowledge, and absolute bliss (sat-chit-ananda). In its immanent aspect, the Supreme Reality is the personal God — Saguna Brahman, Ishvara, and Paramatma. He is omnipresent, omnipotent, omniscient, all pervading, infinite, eternal bliss, creator, preserver and controller of the universe. He is worshipped in various forms according to the choice of His devotees. As an Infinite Being, He has infinite paths leading to Him.

Immortality of the Atman

The Sanskrit word atman, meaning God within, is usually translated as soul, self, or spirit. An individual being, according to Hindu view, is the atman living in a human body. According to the Scriptures atman is immortal and divine. The physical body perishes following death, atman cannot. This doctrine is based upon the spiritual experiences of rishis (sages and seers). From the perfect human being to the lowest worm resides the same omnipresent and omniscient atman. The difference is not in the atman, but in the degree of its manifestation. Just as electricity accomplishes various functions in different electrical appliances, depending upon the design of the appliance, atman manifests itself in different ways in physical bodies, depending upon the type and construction of the body.

The degree of manifestation of atman is highest in the human body. In its liberated state of bliss and original purity, the atman is omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient. However, when it is associated with a particular human body, it gives rise to mind, intellect, and ego. Owing to the existence of maya, the original ignorance, the atman mistakenly identifies itself with the body, mind, and intellect. This false identity is the cause of the soul’s bondage to material existence and the consequent pain and suffering in the world. According to Indian Culture freedom (moksha or salvation) from this earthly bondage is the ultimate aim of human life.

Moksha (Freedom or Salvation)

The ultimate aim of life is to attain freedom from the cycle of birth and death, or union with God. This union can be achieved through true knowledge (jnana), devotion (bhakti), or righteous action(karma). Purity, self-control, truthfulness, non-violence, and faith are the necessary prerequisites for self- realization. The Indian Culture emphasizes the importance of a true guru (spiritual master) for the attainment of true knowledge of the soul and God.

Guru

A true guru is a enlighened master who guides his or her disciple on the spiritual path. The function of a true guru is two-fold: first, he or she explains the scriptures and guides the disciple on the spiritual path; second, the guru teaches by setting an example with the daily acts of his or her own life. Sometimes by words and sometimes in silence, a true guru purifies the spirit of the disciple. According to Hindu view, a disciple who obeys his or her guru in humility and in reverence attains the highest knowledge by the grace of God. In Hinduism a guru-disciple relationship is the most sacred relationship in life. The Katha Upanishad thus declares: “To many it is not given to hear of the Self [God within]. Many, though they hear of it, do not understand it. Wonderful is he who speaks of it. Intelligent is he who learns of it. Blessed is he who, taught by a good teacher (guru), is able to understand it….”

Unity of Existence

Hinduism believes that the universe is a manifestation of the Universal Spirit, known as Brahman in the Upanishads. Brahman has become all the things and beings of the world. Thus there is perfect unity behind the diversity of the world phenomena. The differences appear only when the universe is observed through the mind and the senses alone. However, when the mind is transcended by the wise through spiritual experiences, the Universal Spirit is seen as the sole essence of all things and beings with names and forms.

Freedom of Thought

Hinduism offers a number of ways to seek union with God. Hindus believe that all true religions are but different paths to God. This doctrine is included in the following verse (Rig Veda 1.164.46)’:

“Ekam sad vipraha, bahudha vadanti.” “Truth is one, the wise call it by various names.”

Because of its belief in the omnipresence of the Supreme God in every individual, Hinduism teaches tolerance and universal harmony. Hinduism does not look with contempt even upon an atheist. A characteristic of Hinduism is its receptivity and all-comprehensiveness. It is the religion of humanity, of human nature, of the entire world. It cares not to oppose the progress of any other system. Therefore it has no difficulty in including all other religions within its all-embracing arms and ever- widening fold.”

Incarnation

Hinduism believes that God incarnates Himself on earth to uphold righteousness, whenever there is a decline of virtue. Thus declares Sri Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita (BG 4.6, 4.7):

“Whenever there is decline of righteousness and predominance of unjust, I embody Myself. For the protection of the good and for the destruction of evil and for the reestablishment of dharma (righteousness) I am born from age to age.”

The Law of Karma

Hinduism believes that God, who is pure bliss and merciful, does not punish or reward anyone. He molds our destinies based upon our own thoughts and deeds. Every action of a person, in thought or deed, brings results, either good or bad, depending upon the moral quality of the action, in accordance with the adage, As you sow, so shall you reap. Human actions do not occur without consequences. Moral consequences of all actions are conserved by Nature.

“God keeps an accurate record of all things good and bad. There is no better accountant on earth” , says Mahatma Gandhi. If a person performs righteous deeds, he or she will be born into a better life in the next incarnation. For example, a sinner who leads an immoral life will be born as a poor human or as an animal in the next incarnation. A person is born again and again to reap the fruits of his or her own actions. This cycle of birth and rebirth continues until the person attains moksha, or freedom from the cycle of birth and death.

The Doctrine of Ahimsa

Ahimsa means non-violence, non-injury. Hinduism teaches that all forms of life are manifestations of the Supreme Being. We must not be indifferent to the sufferings of others. We must extend love and compassion to all living beings. Violence and self-centeredness are the causes of evil in the world.

What is Indian Culture ?

The Indian culture is described as “Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara” the first and the supreme culture in the world. It is honored as a divine culture. Today, whenthe world is undergoing haywire transformations on cultural front and facing cultural diversion and adulteration the influence of occidental civilization andcommercialization has over shadowed the way of life of even those who vaunt for the great cultural heritage of India…., it has become more important to review theoriginal form and expansion of the Indian culture, analyze its foundation principles in scientific light and present in detail its different aspects, which dealwith the day to day life of people and which are useful for the righteous progress of the world.The core of Indian culture, as shaped by the revered Rishis, revolves around the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” treating the entire world as our own family,which reflects universality of serene love, altruism, sharing of responsibilities and caring for all beings….

The central theme of Indian cultural development has evolved from the Indian philosophy of continuity of life and realization of the soul as a manifestation of divine impulse. Successive refinement of human consciousness by elimination ofanimal instincts and evil tendencies of the mind and enlightenment of its inner cores was therefore given maximum importance by the Rishis. The system of shodassanskars was devised by them for this purpose. The shodas samskaras, performed at different stages of human life, aim at continuous refinement and escalation of the individual self.

The methods ofperforming these samskaras and adoption of associated disciplines in personal and social life constitute an important component of Indian cultural system.It is a culture of this type which produces true saints, altruist social reformers, martyrs, great personalities, intellectuals, scientists and spiritual masters of thekinds of the Rishis, who, like angels, bestow the world with divine grace through their noble deeds and ascetic characters. The purity of intrinsic faith and arousal ofinner sentiments are regarded most important for the realization of divinity existing in the inner self.

The methods of upasana prescribed under the Indian culturalprinciples lend excellent support in this direction. The source of aspirations and happiness and the ultimate core of sentiments the inner self too gets refined andcharged by the devotional practices of upasana and it experiences absolute peace and blissfulness.The principles pertaining to (i) ascetic control of mental tendencies; (ii) adoption of honesty, generosity, mutual trust, healthy cooperation, morality and integrity ofcharacter and deeds; (iii) altruist service; (iv) sincere fulfillment of responsibilities towards the family, society, nation and the world; (v) courageous attitude andendeavors to fight against injustice, immorality, exploitation, superstition, communalism, castism and similar kinds of negative tendencies and effects in thepersonal and social domains; and (vi) concrete efforts for healthy maintenance of the ecosystem and purification of the environment of life, etc are fundamental to thecreative practices propagated under the banner of Indian culture.

How the above mentioned ‘virtual idealism’ could be naturally assimilated in the activities and behavioral transactions of daily life? This has been the focus of whatconstitutes the ‘traditions’ of the Indian culture.The word “culture” is a literal translation of the word “sanskrati” in Sanskrit language. According to Sanskrit grammar, the word “sanskrati” means that action,method or system which has (or which pertains to) virtuous tendencies….Restraining of the agile mind and cultivation of virtuous tendencies in it isemphasized in the Bharteeya Sanskrati (Indian Culture) because mind is the sole source of orientation of one’s attitude, deeds and character.

The subtle impulses ofconsciousness are expressed in the intellect, thoughts and sentiments via the medium of the four inner layers of mind namely, mana, buddhi, citta and ahamkara.Because of its sound footing on the in-depth knowledge of human psychology and science of spirituality, the Indian philosophy adequately deals with unlimitedexpansion of different aspects of human life including those at the most personal to those at the global levels. Because, Nature and every form of existence has also beentreated here as a manifestation of universal consciousness, the materialistic domain of the world and the nature, functions and activities of the gross body too fall withinthe consideration of this philosophy.

The original structure and relevance of the Indian culture is therefore regarded as universal.The systems of varna and ashram prescribed by the Rishis are often subjected to the criticism of rational thinkers and intellectuals of the modern age. This is because, thepopular interpretations and the information available on these aspects of Indian culture indicates them as nurturing castism, social discrimination, evasion fromresponsibilities, etc. Param Poojya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya has paid special attention to these important issues. He has cited excerpts from theoriginal scriptures and given authentic references and explanation of what is exactly meant by the terms Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra described as the fourvarnas.

The fundamentalists, the orthodox scholars and the advocates of castism will not find any reasonable counter-argument to reject his interpretations andadept analysis.Gayatri the origin of all Vedas, Guru spiritual mentor, Ganga the holy Ganges, Gau (cow) and Geeta are the five fundamental elements which lie at the core of thedevelopment and practices of the Indian culture. It is through these roots that the stout tree of divine Indian culture had blossomed in the ancient times of yore and hasmaintained its ‘greenery’ age after age despite turbulent fluctuations in people’s faith, convictions, cultural values and modes of living.This curriculum is designed to provide information on the life transforming aspects of Indian Culture and the constructive efforts inspired by the patron founders of YugNirman Mission, Shantikunj Haridwar for the revival of the divine Indian culture.

Spiritual way of life

The human life is an invaluable Gift from God. He gave us those privileges,which are not available to any other being. As the Prince of God it is our fore most duty to nurture His garden,the Mother Earth. Spirituality is Realization of Immortal Real Self and considering this human body to be the instrument of God and leading a purposeful and righteous life. This can be achieved by the synthesis of virtuous deeds (Karma Yoga),Righteous knowledge(Gyan Yoga) and faith and devotion (Bhakti Yoga) in our day to day life. After knowing this great truth, our most important duty is to move ahead in the path of spiritualism.

Importance of Spirituality

A) UNDERSTANDING OMNIPRESENCE OF GOD

There are two philosophical views that generally guide the course of life. One is man is born sinner and the other is :
each soul is potentially divine. In the western civilization the religious teachings propagate the first view but the entire Indian philosophy is based on the second view. Each and every one can realize the divinity within by righteous knowledge and virtuous deeds. God can not be perceived by limited power of senses but one can experience him in every situation. The only condition is that one does not make an effort to prove this wrong by rigidly or dogmatically trapping one self in a particular line of thought. God Supreme is present in the entire universe.

A spiritual outlook i.e. giving foremost importance to divinity and immortality of soul (Atman) and considering the body as its mere manifestation is extremely necessary for social and material well being. The meaning of spiritual life lies in putting into conduct the principle of ‘simple living and high thinking’.

God according to the Vedas is Sachchidananda (Sat+ Chit+Anand). Sat stands for truth, chit for pulsating vitality as well as fountain head of knowledge and Anand is bless. Combination all these, the all knowing, life giving eternally blissful and bliss giving God himself. Those who sincerely worship God have no fear from any kind and they never become slaves of material desires, lust, anger and attachment.

B) IDENTIFYING POWER OF SOUL

Righteous knowledge and virtuous deeds removes the ignorance (imposed by maya) leading to the development of ‘atmic shakti’ (or the power of the soul). As a result the entry of wicked tendencies subside. This is a great power which brings freshness and luminosity, sharpening of facilities and creating them carrying out the biggest task.

Atmabal is called asmavarma mayasi meaning this is my Armour of stone. The power of Soul is unconquerable
and free from all conflicts. It is a duty of an individual to recognize the profound power of soul. One should go
on constantly introspecting and removing the faults so that life shines brightly with atmaprakash (the brightness of soul) and becomes bright and cheerful.

C) BENEFITING FROM TRINITY OF WORSHIP

Spiritual endeavors helps an individual to attain a high adoration and discipline. The three fold path of Spirituality consists of

Upasana ( worship ) by worshiping and contemplating on divine virtues one tries to imbibe the qualities of God. The divine principles should guide the sadhaks actions and the seekers gathers strength to remain stable and firm in the face of biggest temptations and attractions.

Sadhana ( self discipline) for one’s own self through control of body, mind with austerity, celibacy and restraint.

Aradhana (Selfless Service ) for the betterment of society and awakening of the masses.

A person who conducts himself according to the religious percepts always forges ahead, carves out a path of peace and happiness for all and creates a blissful atmosphere.

Role of Scientific Spirituality

Spirituality is defined as righteous way of living with full of ideals and virtues.Scientific spirituality is termed as spiritual disciplines studied and practiced with scientific outlook. In today’s modern world, when scientific invention has changed the face of globe, we are lacking inner joy and mental peace. Stress and strains are adding to the agony which the society i facing today. Materialism & capitalism go hand in hand with the development of science and it’s invasion in daily life of human beings.

When Spirituality is looked from scientific perspective, it alleviates the sufferings of ailing humanity and imparts peace. It teaches all human beings, the method to invest in inner harvesting despite living materialistically. His Holiness,Acharya Pt.Shriram Sharma gave this philosophy to all as a “Yug Darshan”. This has also been accepted by think tank of today as most practical philosophy.

Advantages of Spiritual Practice

A) PURITY OF THOUGHT AND ACTION

Purity is a spiritual quality. By nature, the soul is pure and beautiful therefore a sadhaks thought and conduct should always be clean.

Mental purity inspires the human being towards a disciplined life by which he becomes blessed with good health and long life. His senses become powerful and profound. With purity of thoughts and actions noble emotions like love devotion, purity, generosity and helpfulness are aroused and divinity develops.

B) DEVELOPMENT OF DIVINE QUALITIES

Spiritual endeavors develop positive qualities or satogun in an individual. The development and increase of satogun in a person makes him lively.

This helps an individual to become –

Pranvaan (full of vitality),

Ojasvi (luminous with alertness in senses)

Tejasvi (bright and intelligence)

Varchasvi (power to inspire others due to strength of character).

C) SHARPENING OF THE INTELLECT

The power of brain is generally referred as intelligence. There are many levels of Intelligence and many names. Buddhimata (fullness of intelligence), chaturai (cleverness), hoshiyari (alertness), soojbhooj (insight) and tikshan buddi (sharp intelligence). The Sanskrit saying ‘budhiryasya balum tasya” means One who has intelligence has power. The practice of Gayatri Mantra and contemplation on its meanings has ben accorded the supreme importance in the development of righteous intellect. With righteous intellect the mind becomes nirmal clean and pure and mental agonies like anger, fear, jealously gets subdued by the satavik influence of medhavi intelligence.

D) SELF DEVELOPMENT

Self Development of an individual is a long drawn process. In this Swadhyaya plays an important role. There are two
meanings of the word swadhyaya, first is the study of life transforming literature which uphold high values.The second meaning is swa adhyaya (swa means self and adhyaya means study observation of self.

The study of scriptures and good books is a basis of individual progress. Good books fulfil the need of good friends and through them one can find the road of spiritual and moral upliftment. With the study and contemplation of good books, the mind establishes a sentimental unity with that great man which enhances his character, personality and will power.

If one wants to reform others, then first thing one has to do is to bring a revolution in ones life. The power of magnetism should be developed so that brightness in the life of others can be spread. Through self introspection one should develop qualities of Pleasantness’, gentleness and humility and work towards the welfare of others.

E) MOTIVATION TO EXCEL IN WORK

Firm will power is the principal means of achieving success in any endeavor. A man with firm willpower rests only after the completion of the task. Firmness of mind is possible only when the senses remain controlled. Spiritual practices help an Individual to regulate the thinking patterns and direct its energies in the positive direction.Demoniac tendencies are produced in those individuals who constantly think of material pleasures and sense gratification. As said in the holy book Gita:

Those who are focused on the objects of the senses, become attached to those objects. From attachment comes desire; and from desire comes anger; from anger comes confusion of mind; from confusion of mind comes loss of memory; from loss of memory comes loss of intelligence; and from loss of intelligence comes destruction. But those who can move in the world of the senses, and yet be free from both attachment and aversion, experience inner peace, in which there is no sorrow or sadness. This is wisdom, which arises from knowledge of the soul Devote yourself to freeing the senses from attachment and aversion alike. In this way you will dispel the darkness of ignorance – which most people regard as day and awake to the light of truth. Rivers flow into the sea, but cannot make the sea over flow. In the same way the streams of impressions from the world of senses will flow into your mind, but they will no make your passions overflow. On the contrary you will remain calm and tranquil.
– Bhagwat Gita

The calm and tranquil of mind attained through spiritual practice helps an individual to work with great motivation and achieve excellence.Such a motivated person with a desire to excel never waves from his path of progress .His involvement, engrossment and dedication give him tremendous success and he lives a blissful life.

Spirituality and Academics

A) To Achieve Boundless Grace of God in Academic Excellence

Worship regularity and daily for minimum ten minutes

Always greet the elders in the home and Teachers in the School.

Develop a habit of labor and never think of any work as inferior.

To follow Vivekanand Principle of ‘ Uttishtha, jagrita prapya barannibodhata’ which means ‘arise, awake and do not stop till you achieve your objectives’.

To do self study regularly. To read good literature which can give the right direction to life for minimum half an hour daily or to listen to spiritual music.

To lead a life of simplicity. Thinking and habit pattern should be according to an average Indian living standard and one should feel dignity in that.

To harness one’s capacity and talent for the spread of knowledge and good thinking.

To be alert about ones duty and responsibility to self and society and to performs ones duty with full capacity.

To carry out the deeds with without selfish motives and attachment.

To contribute enthusiastically in the collective efforts for improving good activities in the society.

Spiritualist Way of Thinking

Spiritualist Way of Thinking – Indian Value System

Values are the basic principles that guide the human behaviour. Indian Scriptures provide insight into the values to be practised for spiritual upliftment. Some of the core values are discussed below.

Truthfulness:

Inner and outer integrity in thinking and behaviour is the foremost requirement for the development of healthy personality. “Satyameva jayate naanrutum’ i.e. truth always wins, while untruth never wins. This solemn is enshrined in our constitution. There fore one must observe and practice truth. A truthful person remains stable like a rock in adverse situations and does not carry any burden on mind.

Righteousness:
Means uprightness according to religious conduct. To respect religion in every field of life, to follow the injections of religion is called dharm acharan or religious conduct. It means carrying out one s responsibility for achieving excellence. The main qualities of the person pursuing righteousness are mental purity, truthfulness in conduct and empathy for public welfare. A religious person does not advertise his belief. His good deeds and simplicity speaks for themselves.

Short Story- A Rare Value

When Lal Bahadur Shastri was the Prime Minister of India, His son said to him one day, Father, today I have received an appointment letter form this big company and they are offering me a handsome salary”. Lal Bahadur looked at the appointment letter, he smiled and said to his son, “ You have not received this appointment letter on your own merit.Nobody would give you a job which would carry handsome salary. You have got this appointment letter only because you happen to be the son of the Prime Minister of India. I will not let you accept this job. If you do so, it will mean that I am accepting a bribe. I will not let you do it”. There spoke a truly great man.

Love:

The basis of love is to consider others sorrows and happiness as our own. Wee must experience happiness in the happiness of others and feel sorry in the sorrows of others. This sentiment raises us to the high level of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutambakama’ i. e considering the whole world as family and loving all its members. The other important Values as mentioned in the Yagurveda are as follows –